Small Works Estimator

ARC (Norwich) Ltd; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-regarded regional construction specialist is seeking a Small Works Estimator to join their team in Bury St Edmunds. This role involves preparing accurate cost estimates for various small works and building projects, including residential new builds and refurbishments. The ideal candidate will have a background in Quantity Surveying or Estimating and proven experience pricing from first principles. Strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Proven experience pricing from first principles.
• Strong understanding of materials and labour rates.
• Ability to interpret drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for building projects.
• Analyse drawings to establish accurate costs.
• Produce commercial reports and tender summaries.

Skills

Analytical skills

Numerical skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Quantity Surveying or Estimating background

Job description

Small Works Estimator – Residential & Mixed Building Projects

Location: Bury St Edmunds (with site visits entailed)
Salary: £55-£60k + package
Employment Type: Permanent

Are you a commercially-minded Quantity Surveyor or Estimator with strong estimating experience and confidence pricing from first principles? If so, we’re recruiting a Small Works Estimator to join a well-regarded regional construction specialist with a rich heritage in high-quality residential and commercial build programmes.

About the Role

You’ll be responsible for preparing accurate, competitive cost estimates for a wide range of small works and building projects, including residential new builds, extensions, refurbishments, and other client commissions. You’ll work closely with the commercial and operations teams to ensure robust cost planning that supports profitable delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and tenders for small works packages using first-principles pricing.
• Analyse drawings and specifications to establish accurate material, labour, plant, and subcontract costs.
• Review historical costs, supplier/subcontract quotes, and market rates to ensure competitive pricing.
• Liaise with project teams and site staff to understand build methodology and cost drivers.
• Produce clear commercial reports, tender summaries, and risk evaluations.
• Support contract negotiation, procurement strategies, and subcontractor engagement.
• Monitor cost performance during delivery and assist with post-tender clarifications.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes and cost databases.

About You

• Quantity Surveying or Estimating background, ideally in residential or general building construction.
• Proven experience pricing from first principles, with a strong understanding of materials, labour rates, and build methodology.
• Excellent analytical, numerical, and organisational skills.
• Ability to interpret drawings and specifications accurately.
• Strong communicator who works collaboratively within a small team.
• Proactive, commercially aware, and comfortable working in a dynamic environment.

To be considered for this role please apply with your CV, for further information contact Jenny Saban in our Cambridge office